Fiori Berhane

Professor advancing research in the field of anthropology, Fiori Berhane is an esteemed Assistant Professor at the University of Southern California's Dornsife College. Her scholarly work delves deeply into the intricate challenges faced by African refugees, particularly focusing on the Central Mediterranean crossing. Through her research, she sheds light on the complex interplay between discursive and legal frameworks that these refugees encounter. Professor Berhane's research is particularly centered on Eritrean refugee activists and their engagement with colonial, post-colonial, and neo-colonial policies and histories. Her work in Italy is pivotal in understanding how these activists navigate and challenge the multi-modal violence that permeates their experiences from their country of origin, through transit, and into settlement. Her academic pursuits are driven by a commitment to postcolonial studies, refugee activism, and the broader implications of neocolonialism and colonialism. Through her research, Professor Berhane aims to contribute to a more nuanced understanding of the socio-political dynamics that affect refugees, offering insights that are crucial for policy-making and advocacy. At USC, she is not only a dedicated researcher but also an inspiring educator, engaging students with her passion for anthropology and her commitment to social justice. Her work continues to influence both academic circles and broader societal discussions on refugee issues and postcolonial dynamics.